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Cyclopean Walls and Desert Clay Integrate Sustainable Living in a Modern Residential Design

Author:
Ibrahimi Sofia
Cyclopean Walls and Desert Clay Integrate Sustainable Living in a Modern Residential Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating cyclopean walls and local desert clay, this residential design emphasizes thermal efficiency and natural ventilation to create a sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced desert clay for improved thermal performance.
02
Features a central courtyard designed for natural airflow and humidity control.
03
Uses cyclopean walls to enhance structural stability while reflecting regional tradition.
04
Integrates solar panels for energy generation and reduced carbon footprint.
05
Utilizes modular elements for flexibility in spatial arrangement and adaptability.

### Project Overview

The Al Bayt Project, located in Dubai, represents a sophisticated integration of traditional architectural principles with contemporary sustainability practices. This initiative emphasizes the fusion of cultural heritage and modern design, aiming to create a space that reflects the history of the region while addressing current environmental considerations. The project is characterized by its functional design, ecological consciousness, and aesthetic coherence, tailored to the needs of its inhabitants.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The spatial configuration is carefully designed to facilitate both private and communal interactions. The ground floor is dedicated to shared spaces, with an open layout that fosters engagement among residents. Central to this arrangement is a family courtyard, which serves as a transitional area enhancing natural ventilation and light throughout the indoor environment. The upper floors prioritize privacy, featuring bedrooms with balconies that connect to the outdoors while maintaining individual seclusion. This thoughtful layout allows residents to enjoy shared amenities while accommodating personal space requirements.

### Material and Construction Strategies

The construction of Al Bayt employs a meticulously selected palette of materials that balance tradition with modern technology. Key elements include cyclopean walls for thermal mass, desert clay bricks providing structural integrity, and concrete that supports sustainability goals. External finishes incorporate terracotta tiles for aesthetic continuity, while wood adds warmth to interior spaces. Glass is strategically positioned to optimize natural light and thermal management. The design juxtaposes solid and perforated surfaces for effective ventilation and heat control, embodying both local craftsmanship and advanced building techniques.

Bioclimatic solutions feature prominently in the project, leveraging natural elements to enhance indoor comfort. Cross-ventilation is achieved through strategic openings, while solar panels contribute to energy efficiency. Shading devices, such as pergolas, minimize exposure to direct sunlight, and a central water feature in the courtyard contributes to humidity, improving the microclimate and visual appeal of the environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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